Many local politicians, environmentalists and Catholics warmly praised Pope Francis' encyclical calling for sweeping transformation in politics and economics in order to protect the environment and deal with climate change….

… "Pope Francis' encyclical about today's environmental challenges speaks volumes about the threat that climate change poses to each and every person," said a statement from U.S. Rep. John Sarbanes, D-Baltimore County, who represents Annapolis and other parts of Anne Arundel County.

"I applaud the pope, and other leaders in the faith community, for joining the chorus of global influential voices who are bringing much-needed attention to this issue and urging action."